October 22, 1950 – February 27, 2024
Paul dedicated his life to serving this country, his community, his family and most importantly, his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. At just the age of 18, Paul left the whispering winds of the Louisiana Bayou to join the United States Marine Corps. He completed his basic training at Camp Lejeune, NC.
After serving his country, Paul was honorably discharged, where he was hired as an Onslow County Deputy Sheriff. Paul was brought on as a NC State Highway Patrol Communication officer, and was then hired as a North Carolina State Trooper. He quickly became promoted to Line Sergeant, then to First Sergeant and helped launch the original NC Interstate 95 Drug Interdiction Unit and DUI task force. He wore the uniform and badge fearlessly every time he stepped into his patrol car.
After retiring from the NCSHP, Paul once again boldly stepped onto the battlefield following the events of 9/11. He traveled overseas to work as an international police officer, and worked alongside the US Marines as a Government Contractor. Paul worked the rugged mountains of Nepal, the depths of East Timor, Indonesia, Australia, and the deserts of Afghanistan and Iraq. He saw the sunrise and set the same day as he crossed the International Dateline on one of his tours. His service to his country will never be forgotten.
Paul is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Laura (Shea), daughter, Ashley, sister, Debra, brother Luckie, Nephews Brooks and Paul Pierre, Niece Brittany, and grandchildren, C.J., and Elizabeth. He will always be remembered as a faithful friend to many, an uncle “PD”, a funny brother, the grandkids “Paw Paw”, a protective father, an amazing father-in-law and a loving husband who never gave up and fought the good fight until his maker and redeemer called him home.
Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle. He is my steadfast love and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, and in whom I take refuge. Psalm 144: 1-2
I had the pleasure of knowing him. What a remarkable man. Rest easy my friend.
What a respectable, hard working, friendly man with a great sense of humor!! His love for his wife Shea and their Kitty Cats was always the topic of our many conversations. He was such a positive soul and great friend. He will be dearly missed by all.
Belated condolences to the family. Thankful for his service. God Bless the family with his memories.
Sending love for our classmate. @Neville High School Class of ‘70. Facebook Mrs Laura and family. We have photos too.- love always, Patsy Hammonds Rials
What an amazing life!
Prayers for the family- thank you Paul for your service and all you did for our country – A life well lived!
Cheryl & Tom Grigson
I worked with Paul in both East Timor and briefly in Iraq. He was a great comrade in arms and always had a positive attitude. I enjoyed my time with him and will miss him and his wittty emails. Fair winds and following seas Marine.